In the early 20th century the US became a global power under President Roosevelt. Expanding the fleet, building the Panama Canal, and shifting from isolationism, by World War I, the U.S. was a major power, witnessing the epic Battle of Jutland and German submarine warfare against a starving Britain.

United States beats Spain in the Spanish American War and emerges onto the world stage as a great power, with colonies and a navy to match our newfound status. This post also touches on the changes the navy went through during this period.